Reis’ journey to this stage started far from any spotlight. In Manaus, Brazil, he honed his craft with little more than discipline, perseverance and a hunger that transcended the space in which he trained. That mentality became the force that propelled his meteoric rise in the competitive circuits of Brazil and later in the United States.
Along the way, he has received accolades around the world, including two ADCC World Championships in 2022 and 2024. Yet he still considers the pursuit of ONE gold an important moment in his evolving legacy. Those humble beginnings continue to guide him. Even as a two-time world champion, Reis insists his hunger is only growing.
With 93 career victories, Reis often speaks of pressure as confirmation that he is on the right track, that his work is resonating beyond the walls of the gym. In his debut at ONE Fight Night 29, he chained a headscissors into a kimura to finish Shoya Ishiguro, a statement that his creativity and aggression were tailor-made for ONE Championship’s rules.
“What makes me different from the other athletes is my mind. Since I was a kid, I didn’t have big gyms or extra teachers. I reached this level of jiu-jitsu with a minimum of things,” he said. “Now I have all this support, so if I did all that without it, [I know] I can go to the next level.”
“I’m very young, I’m only 23. I know I can do it [achieve] more. I’m just beginning to build my legacy. I’m just at the beginning of it all. So I still have a long way to go until I become a legend in the sport.”
Diogo Reis breaks down Daiki Yonekura ahead of vacant title fight
Diogo Reis crosses paths with a dangerous force in Daiki Yonekura, one of Japan’s best submission artists. With sharp leg locks, sharp mechanics and wins over respected Brazilian wrestlers, Yonekura has built a reputation as a deadly and unpredictable threat.
Reis remembers the exact moment the Japanese standout caught his attention: a decisive win over a Brazilian friend, which immediately highlighted Yonekura’s skill. Still, Reis believes he brings something intangible to this competition, namely familiarity with ONE’s global stage.
Yonekura’s ambition mirrors his. Two world stars, two contrasting orbits and one belt are at the center of their collision. Only one will walk out with history tied around his waist. Reis already knows how he wants to grab it.
“I know he’s one of the best in Japan. I saw him beat my Brazilian friend. If he’s one of the best in Japan, that’s good for me. I’m ready to beat him,” he said. “I never underestimate [anyone.] I know he’s really good. He has good leg and foot locks, so he’s very good at that.
“I want to end this fight with a guillotine.”
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